Organizations launch Texans for Property Rights initiative

Fifteen Texas-based organizations announced on Oct. 26 the Texans for Property Rights coalition, which will lead a grassroots initiative for meaningful reform to state eminent domain laws. 
As the state population continues to grow at a rapid pace, there is an increasing need for more property to build infrastructure for utilization of natural resources and to address transportation needs. While property owners recognize these demands, they also realize that their property rights must be better protected. 
In Texas, about 95 percent of the land is privately owned, which puts the needs of the public in direct conflict with the rights of Texas property owners. These conflicts are not willing buyer-willing seller transactions and often play out in expensive, time-consuming, stressful and unfair situations, resulting in bad outcomes for property owners. 
The Texans for Property Rights coalition is hosting meetings across the state allowing property owners to learn how they can get involved and share their concerns on eminent domain. An overview of current laws and possible improvements will also be presented by an eminent domain legal expert at these meetings. 
For a list of meeting dates and locations and more information regarding the Texans for Property Rights initiative, visit the website at www.texansforpropertyrights.com. The site includes information on the legislative efforts and serves as a place for property owners to share their eminent domain stories and sign a petition to support the effort. Property owners are encouraged to visit this site to get involved and make their voices heard. 
Property rights are the cornerstone of Texas’ freedom, and they are worth the fight. It is for this reason these grassroots organizations have formed the Texans for Property Rights coalition. 
The growing coalition is currently comprised of Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association, Texas Farm Bureau, Texas Wildlife Association, Texas Forestry Association, South Texans’ Property Rights Association, Texas Poultry Association, Texas Sheep and Goat Raisers Association, Independent Cattlemen’s Association, Texas Grain Sorghum Association, Plains Cotton Growers, Inc., Corn Producers Association of Texas, Riverside & Landowners Protection Coalition, Texas Land & Mineral Owners Association, Texas Association of Dairymen and Texas Cattle Feeders Association.